Knockout special for Saturday's "Strikeforce on NBC"

http://mmajunkie.comA special version of “Strikeforce on NBC” is slated for Saturday as the organization will feature the 10 greatest knockouts from the fight promotion’s three-year history.

“Strikeforce on NBC,” which has proven to be a surprise ratings hit for the Peacock Network since its April debut, airs in most markets in late-night Saturday time slots, though the airtimes vary from market to market.

“Strikeforce on NBC” follows “Poker After Dark” in most markets. Co-hosted by MMA legend Ken Shamrock and ESPN announcer Lon McEachern, the program set a ratings record when the Oct. 18 episode featuring a bout between Trevor Prangley and Anthony Ruiz drew 1.1 million viewers.

As MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) previously reported, Strikeforce and NBC have opened talks to bring live fights to the Peacock Network in early 2009. The success of “Strikeforce on NBC” has played a role in NBC’s interest. If Strikeforce secures the deal, the organization would become the only MMA organization with a major U.S. network television deal. (EliteXC previously had one with CBS, but with the organization trying to stave off its demise, it’s unlikely to return to airwaves and its current form.)